The family of late Mary Habila, popularly known as Mara, has disclosed that she lived with a heart condition caused by a hole in her heart before her death in June 2026.
Habila, 25, was buried in her hometown, Nok, in Jaba Local Government Area of Kaduna State, on Friday, August 21, following months of controversy over the circumstances surrounding her death.
In a brief biography released by the family, they said Habila’s health condition became critical despite medical treatment, prayers and support from her loved ones, before she died following a cardiac arrest.
“Mary Habila lived with a heart condition, having been diagnosed with a hole in her heart,” the family stated.
“Despite medical care and the prayers and support of her family and loved ones, her condition became critical. She sadly passed away following a cardiac arrest, leaving behind a deep void in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.”
Born on September 18, 2000, Habila was described by her family as “very sincere, respectful, obedient, loving and jovial,” and deeply loved by her parents, church members and those around her.
She was raised and trained in the Deeper Life Bible Church, where her father is a pastor. As a child, she participated actively in the church’s children’s choir before later joining the youth church.
Habila began her professional career as a Community Health Extension Worker at Favoured Ground Clinic in Buka Sidi, Lafia, Nasarawa State. She later moved to Cherry Hills Pharmacy and Stores in Gwarinpa, Abuja.
The family said she subsequently worked as a personal nurse to the Minister of Works, David Umahi, whom she reportedly met through her work in Abuja.
Habila died on June 27, 2026, after she was found unresponsive at the minister’s residence in Uburu, Ebonyi State.
The circumstances surrounding her death generated widespread public attention, with the Ebonyi State Police Command confirming that it received a distress call over a medical emergency involving her.
She was taken to the David Umahi Federal University Teaching Hospital, where she was confirmed dead.
The development prompted calls for further investigation, while both the public and the minister requested an autopsy. The family initially objected to the procedure.
A source later confirmed that Habila’s remains were released to her family ahead of her burial.
The family’s account has now identified her longstanding heart condition and subsequent cardiac arrest as the cause of her death, amid earlier public speculation over possible foul play.
“Though her life was short, Mary will always be remembered for her strength in the face of adversity, the love she shared, and the lasting impact she made on everyone blessed to know her,” the family said.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
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